The Democratic Republic of Congo has suspended former President Joseph Kabila’s political party and ordered the seizure of his assets over allegations of supporting M23 rebels in the country’s conflict-ridden east.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has suspended former President Joseph Kabila’s political party and ordered the seizure of his and other party leaders’ assets, accusing them of supporting the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group operating in the country’s east.

Kabila, 53, who ruled from 2001 to 2019 and stepped down following mass protests, recently expressed a desire to return to Congo to help resolve the ongoing conflict. However, on Saturday, the interior ministry announced the suspension of his People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), citing its alleged support for M23. The justice ministry further declared that Kabila and several party officials would face asset seizures over actions described as “high treason.”

Both ministries stated that legal proceedings against Kabila had been initiated, although specific evidence or details of the allegations were not disclosed.

Kabila has yet to respond publicly, but Ferdinand Kambere, PPRD’s secretary, condemned the move as a blatant violation of the country's constitution and laws.

M23 rebels have seized two major cities in Congo’s mineral-rich eastern region this year. The area has endured prolonged unrest, largely stemming from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and ongoing battles over valuable resources.

Kabila initially rose to power following the assassination of his father and resisted stepping down when his final term ended in 2016. He eventually relinquished power and has since lived in various African countries.

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